Squint in Children and Adults: Causes and Treatments Explained

Squint, medically known as strabismus, is a condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned with each other. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other eye focuses normally. This misalignment can occur constantly or intermittently and may affect one or both eyes. Beyond being a cosmetic concern, squint is a functional eye disorder that can significantly impact vision, depth perception, and quality of life. In his educational video, Dr. Digvijay Singh, a renowned squint specialist and paediatric ophthalmologist, explains the condition in a clear and patient-friendly manner.

Common Causes of Squint in Children and Adults

Squint can develop due to several underlying reasons. One of the most common causes is uncorrected refractive errors such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness, or astigmatism. When the brain struggles to focus images clearly, it may suppress one eye, leading to misalignment. Another major cause is dominance imbalance between the eyes, where one eye becomes stronger, and the weaker eye drifts away. Muscle-related problems, including paralysis or improper functioning of the eye muscles, can also result in squint. In children, genetic factors and developmental issues play a significant role, while in adults, squint may occur due to trauma, neurological conditions, or long-standing, untreated childhood squint.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

The most visible symptom of squint is misaligned eyes, but the condition often presents additional signs. Patients may experience double vision, frequent eye strain, headaches, or difficulty judging distances. Children may tilt their head, close one eye in bright light, or show poor hand-eye coordination. If left untreated, squint in children can lead to lazy eye (amblyopia), where vision in the affected eye does not develop fully. Dr. Singh emphasizes that early recognition of these symptoms is critical to prevent permanent visual impairment.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis is especially important in children, as visual development occurs primarily in the first few years of life. Timely treatment helps the brain learn to use both eyes together, enabling proper binocular vision and depth perception. Dr. Digvijay Singh stresses that squint is not something a child will “outgrow” on its own. Regular eye examinations can detect squint early, even before it becomes obvious to parents, allowing for simpler and more effective treatment.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Not all squint cases require surgery. Dr. Singh explains several non-surgical management options depending on the cause and severity. These include prescription glasses to correct refractive errors, patching therapy to treat lazy eye, and computer-based vision exercises designed to improve eye coordination. Modern technologies now allow targeted visual training that can enhance muscle control and binocular function, particularly in mild to moderate cases.

Role of Squint Surgery

When conservative treatments are insufficient, squint surgery may be recommended. The procedure involves adjusting the muscles around the eye to restore proper alignment. According to Dr. Digvijay Singh, squint surgery is a safe and highly effective option when performed by an experienced specialist, with success rates approaching 100%. Surgery not only improves eye alignment but also enhances visual function and facial appearance, leading to increased confidence and quality of life.

Expert Care and Guidance

Dr. Digvijay Singh’s video offers compassionate, scientifically grounded guidance for patients and parents seeking clarity on squint eye treatment. From diagnosis to advanced management, his expertise ensures personalized care. For consultation and comprehensive treatment, patients can visit Noble Eye Care, Gurugram, and take the first step toward healthier, aligned vision.